Payton Wilson Sets NFL History with Jaw-Dropping Speed, Proving Steelers’ Defense Can’t Be Stopped
Pittsburgh, PA — October 10, 2025 — It’s one thing for a linebacker to make a game-saving tackle. It’s another when that same linebacker sets an NFL record for speed. That’s exactly what
With 22.48 mph clocked on Next Gen Stats, Wilson’s speed on a critical play late in the game shattered the previous record for the fastest speed ever recorded by a linebacker. The jaw-dropping moment came during a blown coverage by safety
The tackle prevented a potential game-winning touchdown for the Vikings and forced them to burn valuable time with four more plays, allowing the Steelers to maintain control. While the tackle was a huge play in terms of the game’s outcome, it was Wilson’s speed that stole the spotlight — as it broke a 9-year record previously held by other NFL speedsters.
A Speed That Defies Expectations
Wilson’s impressive speed isn’t just a feat for a linebacker — it places him among the NFL’s elite players, regardless of position. His 22.48 mph clocking is one of the fastest speeds ever recorded, placing him among the top 10 fastest players in NFL history. The NFL’s all-time speed leader is
What’s more impressive is that Wilson isn’t a cornerback or a wide receiver — he’s a 6-foot-4, 240-pound linebacker. Speed like that, especially from a player of his size, is a rarity. But Wilson’s determination to make the play, his relentless pursuit, and his ability to maintain top speed for such a long distance highlight the unique skill set that has now elevated him into the conversation of the league’s most electrifying players.
A Historic Moment for the Steelers’ Defense
For the Steelers, Wilson’s record-setting performance isn’t just a moment of individual glory — it’s a testament to the strength of their defense.
But it’s not just about physical talent. Wilson’s awareness and discipline on the field were equally impressive. Despite his extraordinary speed, he didn’t rush blindly — he kept his focus on Addison and tracked him every step of the way, making the critical tackle when it mattered most. This combination of physical gifts and mental discipline is what makes Wilson one of the most promising young linebackers in the NFL today.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Payton Wilson
With the Steelers off to a solid start in the 2025 season, Payton Wilson’s incredible performance in Week 4 has the potential to be a defining moment for both his career and the team’s defense. His ability to be a difference-maker in high-pressure situations has made him one of the most exciting players to watch.
While it’s early in the season, Wilson’s speed and playmaking ability are likely to continue to propel him to the forefront of NFL conversations. With 3 sacks, 10 pressures
If this Week 4 performance is any indication, Payton Wilson isn’t just a rising star — he’s on his way to becoming one of the most feared linebackers in the NFL.
Eagles Bullied Way To Super Bowl, But They Were The Bullied Ones In New York
The Eagles are no longer the bullies of the NFC. They played that role to perfection last year on their way to a Lombardi Trophy, being more physical than anyone that stood in their way.
On Thursday night, in their 34-17 throttling by the New York Giants, they were the ones being bullied. Worse, they were bludgeoned by a 6-2, 215-pound battering ram named Cam Skattebo, who charged into the middle of the line from the very first play of the game to nearly the last.
“This team came out, punched us in the mouth,’ said Jordan Mailata. “We need to look at the film, and really hold ourselves accountable ... No one should walk away from this game, thinking that we should’ve won it.”
The Giants kept pounding away at the Eagles. Skattebo had nine carries for 31 yards, a 3.9 yards per carry average, in the first half. In the second half, he had 11 runs for 67 yards for a total of 19 carries for 98 yards, a 5.2-yard per carry average.
Skattebo had three touchdowns, one each in the second, third, and fourth to become the first running back to rush for three TDs against the Eagles since Arizona’s David Johnson in 2015. That’s 10 years ago.
It's Gut Check Time For Eagles
“I don't think we played our brand the football or coached our brand of football,” said head coach Nick Sirianni. “Give them credit. You know, they did a good job. And so, again, have to look at the tape with how things kind of played out there.”
When a team can’t stop the run, it’s demoralizing for a defense, and the Eagles became bowling pins being knocked over by Skattebo and company.
“We talk about (being more physical than an opponent) all the time,” said Cooper DeJean, who had just two tackles after coming into the game averaging 6.6 per game. “We talk about it, but we have to go out there and be about it and do it on the field. They out-physical-ed us in moments and that’s just not us. That’s not our brand of football. We have to fix that.”
Say what you want about the offense, and it is still a mess, but the defense couldn’t stop from being beaten to a pulp and left on a New York City sidewalk. They couldn’t get off the field on third down, giving up 11 first downs in 16 tries.
“We need to figure out how to be physically dominant, how can we be physically tough, how can we be mentally strong,” said rookie linebacker Jihaad Campbell, who had seven tackles. “That’s what it comes down to.”
Look deeper and eight of those 16 third downs required five or less yards to convert because the Eagles could not stop the run.
“We see them again in 2 weeks,’ said Mailata. “We have another opportunity at our home. It’s not a make-or-break. Now, is it a gut check for us? 100 percent. That’s not a make-or-break. It’s a gut-check to see how fast we can react.”
